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Pressure on Mo’unga against Sunwolves

Date published: April 13 2017

Although Crusaders pivot Richie Mo’unga will be in the starting XV against the Sunwolves on Friday, he will have to fight to keep his place in the side.

That was the word from Crusaders head coach Scott Robertson who has been impressed with the performances of rookie fly-half Mitchell Hunt since he replaced Mo’unga in the seven-time champions’ run-on side after their opener against the Brumbies.

Mo’unga has been sidelined since fracturing his hand in that 17-13 win over the Brumbies in February and Hunt has come to the fore with several impressive performances since then and played a big role in helping the Crusaders to an unbeaten run after six matches.

“Yes, there is a little bit of heat on him (Mo’unga),” Robertson told Stuff.

“I think the depth in our No 10 position now is good. It is heating up, it is something that we needed.

“Mitch has taken that opportunity, and has been pretty clutch. He has definitely created competition and Richie is aware of it. Now it is his opportunity.”

“We would love to keep him (until the end of the season),” added Robertson.

“We will just deal with him being with us for now, and the rest will work out.”